I've realized that audio books may not be my thing. I just forget to listen. The character interpretations by the narrator, Liz Pearce, are quite good. Not sure that the story is holding my attention. Obviously. (see reading dates) :(

I'm sorry, classic book. I just can't read another boring word. I'm DNF'ing this one before I poke my eyes out. I should've been able to stick it out. At only 166 pages, this isn't a long story. The one thing it isn't short on...BOREDOM. It's official. I've DNF'ed my first book of the year.

Was sitting in the car waiting for husband to return. Got bored and downloaded the Bluefire reader app on my iPhone. http://www.bluefirereader.com/ I promised myself I'd start reading more classics, adding one to my currents as often as possible. Guess my love for historical fiction drew me to this one. The cover, I guess. I'm not crazy about romantic stories but going to give this a shot, despite it's low ratings.

Because I only listen to my audio books when I'm ready for bed, a goodnight story helps to ease me to sleep, my progress with audiobooks is usually slow. Unless it's super interesting, then I listen while doing chores or in the car alone. So far, it's ok. It's not getting much play.

Sadly, I wrapped up this read on Friday and I was very disappointed...to end Josephine's story. Alas, another book that belongs on my BEST OF 2016. For every page turned I thought, why did it take you so long to read this fabulous book?! Seriously, if you love historical fiction and action set in Revolutionary Paris, THIS is THE BOOK for you!!! If a strong, fierce female protagonist appeals to your reading senses, read this book NOW! I could kick myself for neglecting Webb's book for as long as it's been on my Kindle. It wasn't until I actually won a physical copy through a favored blog giveaway that the novel finally captured my attention. After the first paragraph, I knew I was hooked and it only continued to get better with every turn of the page. Josephine's incredible transformation, from a simple Martinique island Creole girl to young wife of a French soldier, is remarkable and Rose, as she is originally known, fights for her freedom and independence every step of the way. This is a woman who more than earned her crown as Imperial Highness Josephine Bonaparte, Empress of France, Empress of Europe.

Listen, if I'm being completely honest, I tend to be generous with some of my five star ratings. Perhaps, after a bit of reflection, there may be a few books that I've given one too many stars to but BECOMING JOSEPHINE earned every single point of all five shining stars. Infact, it's so magnifique that I give it TEN STARS!!

Heather Webb is a phenomenal storyteller. She knows how to bring characters to life, characters that leap off the page and get into your head and heart. Webb's colorful descriptions filled my five senses. I could perfectly visualize the beautiful Parisian fashions, smell the fresh sea air of Josephine's beloved isle of Martinique, the fragrant blossoms of her gardens, and the city streets of a bustling Paris. I could taste the petit fours and scrumptious bites served in the salons of the rich. I could imagine crystal goblets of the finest wines clinking together in celebratory toasts. Horrific as it is, Webb clearly conveyed the message of war and Revolution. Imagining the streets of Paris filling with angry riots and violent acts, I could hear the cries of those that screamed for help, see the blood that spilled from thousands. For a brief moment in time, I lived amongst the ghosts at the Palais des Tuileries, walking the same great halls as the doomed Marie Antoinette. Webb transported me through time and history and it was a magical journey. Yes! A favorite of 2016 and most definitely an addition to my all time favorites. Thankfully, I have another Webb novel on my Kindle, RODIN'S LOVER. With an author like Webb at the helm, I predict another fine atmospheric tale.

Want more Heather Webb? LAST CHRISTMAS IN PARIS, written with bestselling author Hazel Gaynor, will release in Oct 2017 from Harper Collins. More info at: www.heatherwebbauthor.com

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